NNPP asks INEC to restore public trust in electoral process
The New Nigeria People’s Party urges the Independent National Electoral Commission to focus on rebuilding public confidence in the electoral system, stating that internal party disputes are not the main reason for voter apathy.
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take definitive actions towards restoring public trust in the electoral process. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, made this call in a statement from Abuja, emphasizing that the internal conflicts within political parties should not distract from the broader issues affecting voter turnout. Johnson acknowledged that while legal disputes among parties often involve INEC, leading to additional administrative burdens, those disputes are not the primary cause of voter disinterest.
Johnson pointed out that the concerns raised by INEC about the impact of intra-party conflicts are legitimate, as these conflicts often lead to court cases where the commission must be included as a necessary party. This situation diverts the commission's focus, resources, and time away from its core responsibilities. Despite this issue, Johnson stressed the need for INEC to prioritize efforts that can help achieve a more transparent and trusted electoral process, rather than being sidetracked by party disputes.
The NNPP’s statement comes at a crucial time when public confidence in electoral integrity is paramount in Nigeria. As political tensions rise amidst a backdrop of internal party disputes, the call for INEC to focus on restoring trust reflects a larger need for the re-engagement of voters and a revitalization of the electoral framework in the country. The party's stance underscores the necessity for all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards ensuring that the electoral process is perceived as fair and legitimate, which is essential for increasing voter participation in future elections.